Livestock throughput across England and Wales edged up in 2025, with total numbers increasing to 10.76 million total livestock head sold.
Notably, total market turnover rose significantly to just over £3bn, up £554m year-on-year, and this has never previously exceeded £2.5bn, according to the latest figures from the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA).
The figures show a rise of 42,000 head of cattle and sheep compared with 2024, reflecting continued confidence in the live auction system despite a contracting in the national herd and flock, says the LAA.
The uplift was largely driven by finished stock, which rose by 86,000 head to 6.83 million compared to 2024. Finished sheep increased by 78,000 head to 6.52m, while finished pigs rose by 13,000 head and finished cattle rose by 2,000 head.
Resilience
Despite broader national trends showing a declining sheep flock, auction marts continue to demonstrate resilience, with strong engagement from farmers looking to secure competitive prices through selling in the live ring.
Recent data from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board indicates a national sheep flock down by around 2%, yet mart throughput has held firm – bucking the wider trend.
This reflects the continued value of the live auction system as a transparent and competitive marketplace, where buyers from across the supply chain compete openly for stock, says LAA policy and strategy officer Alastair Brown.
“The live ring continues to deliver real value for farmers. It provides a transparent, competitive marketplace, with a buyer for every type of stock and no hidden deductions, creating genuine opportunities to achieve the best price.”